Mental Health Professional I (Dorchester - Charleston)

Are you passionate about making a real difference in people's lives? Join our team at the Office of Mental Health where we are dedicated to providing compassionate and accessible care to our community. We are seeking a Mental Health Professional I who is motivated to help individuals and families navigate life's challenges and achieve long-term wellness. If you want to use your skills to build a healthier, more resilient community, we encourage you to apply.

This position is located at the SC Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) - Office of Mental Health, Charleston Dorchester Mental Health, Dorchester Clinic, 106 Springview Lane, Summerville, SC 29485

Under general supervision, you will provide recovery-oriented counseling and related behavioral healthcare services and/or case-management functions for individuals diagnosed with mental health disorders and co-occurring disorders. This position serves primarily adults in Dorchester County.

Responsibilities for the Mental Health Professional I:

• Provide an array of clinical services and meets patient care hour expectations as indicated on the performance review (EPMS). Service may include but are not limited to assessment, treatment planning, crisis management, individual, group, and/or family therapy, and case-coordination. Services are delivered in a patient-centered, recovery-oriented manner. 
• Document services collaboratively and in accordance with quality assurance requirements. QA requirements may include but are not limited to appropriate discharge planning, timely and thorough completion of DLA-20s, plans of care, progress summaries and session notes. 
• Build and maintain positive relationships with patients, internal staff, and external community partners in order to facilitate linkages to services and provide quality treatment. Participate in meetings, supervision, and interagency staffing as needed. 
• Pursue professional development through collegial consultation, supervision, continuing education, training and licensure/certification as applicable. Maintain all
  required certifications and licenses.
• Comply with Corporate Compliance policy; all state and federal laws; all agency and center policies and procedures. Help ensure area is CARF accredited.
• May mentor/supervise practicum students/interns to provide educational and experiential opportunities for future workforce.

• A master’s degree in guidance, counseling, the social sciences or a related field.
• Licensed or meets the requirements for licensure eligibility as a LPC, LISW-CP, or LMFT.

Additional Requirements:

• This position is considered essential and may be called back during crisis/disasters/emergencies.
• Must hold a SC Driver's License and must have reliable and dependable transportation
• Must be able to lift 10 pounds, and position may require travel between clinics and/or homes. Services are provided in the clinic, community, or the home.

• Behavioral healthcare experience.

Post hire, the employee must have:

• Knowledge of counseling practices, including knowledge of psychopathology, diagnosing, and treatment of behavioral health disorders including mental illness. 
• Ability to listen and understand and effectively communicate information and ideas. 
• Some knowledge of psychopathology and patient management within the psychiatric setting. 
• Ability to effectively communicate and establish and maintain effective relationships with patients, families, other professionals, and community partners. 
• Some knowledge of basic health and welfare services provided by other public and private agencies. Ability to utilize electronic health record.

The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions including, but not limited, to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.

Supplemental questions are considered part of your official application.  Any misrepresentation will result in your disqualification from employment.  Please complete the state application to include all current and previous work history and education.  A resume will not be accepted nor reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position.

The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities offers an exceptional benefits package for full time (FTE) employees: 

• Health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children. Click here for additional information.
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
• 15 days sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• S.C. Deferred Compensation Program available (S.C. Deferred Compensation)
• Retirement benefit choices *
  • State Retirement Plan (SCRS)
  • State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP)

*Enrollment in one of the listed plans is required for all FTE employees; please refer to the contribution section of hyperlinked retirement sites for the current contribution rate of gross pay.